Tritonia Rayée

Overview

Duvaucelia lineata is a small, slender nudibranch characterized by its translucent white body and distinct longitudinal white lines. This marine gastropod is primarily found in the northeastern Atlantic, ranging from Norway to the British Isles and southward to the Iberian Peninsula, with occasional sightings in the Mediterranean.

Appearance

This species typically reaches lengths of 1.5 to 3.5 cm. Its body has a quadrangular cross-section and is generally translucent white, though it may occasionally exhibit a pinkish hue. Two opaque white lines run along the dorsal margins from the base of the rhinophores to the tail, often connecting with the bases of the branchial (gill) appendages. The head features a short oral veil with four digitated, white-tipped tentacles. The rhinophores are set in thick, wavy-edged sheaths, and the back bears four to six pairs of short, slightly branched gills.

Distribution & habitat

This nudibranch is found in temperate waters, particularly around the British Isles, Norway, and the French Atlantic coast. It prefers rocky environments, often in silty conditions, where it can be found among algae, hydroids, and octocorals.

Biology & behavior

Duvaucelia lineata is often observed on rock walls or under stones. While its specific diet is not fully confirmed, it is believed to feed on small octocorals such as Sarcodictyon roseum. When reproducing, it deposits its eggs in a thin, coiled ribbon.